For more than a few years, WRW was on
TV almost weekly using MoRich balls. And, MoRich saw very little return in their PBA payment investment. So, they backed off. One year, WRW paid their fee himself so he could use their balls. I really wonder what benefit the ball companies get in return for the payment.
Is the champion the ball or the bowler? I contend, the bowler.
Other Sports have rules prohibiting players from wearing advertisement on their uniforms. Some bowlers look like walking billboards. It degrades the Sport.
Everyone knows Baseball players use Hillerich & Bradsby or Louisville Slugger Bats as you often see the label. Same with Wilson or Mizuno Gloves. Yet, those products don't have to pay to be used. I frankly don't know what Tennis Racket is being used. And, if I didn't see a swoosh on a jersey, I wouldn't know which one it was. Only the PBA demands this payment. The bowling winner didn't use the best ball, only the one who paid him to use it and paid the PBA for it to be used. Those ball companies who pay have bought a market. And, in my mind, have not earned it.
This payment is just one of the irrational things the PBA has done over the years to degrade the Sport.
In a day where Bowling is searching for sponsorship for prize money, the PBA should force the equipment companies to sponsor the event to get their name broadcast. The money should go to the winning bowlers, not the PBA.